Mr Putin expressed his satisfaction with the overall normal implementation of UN Security Council resolution 1701, which has made it possible to halt the bloodshed. The President noted positive developments in that the Lebanese army has begun deploying in the south of Lebanon and Israeli troops are gradually withdrawing. Mr Putin stressed that Russia is working with all sides in order to ensure that the process goes ahead smoothly and to facilitate a long-term settlement in the region.
Mr Siniora expressed Lebanon’s profound gratitude for Russia’s efforts to ensure that UN Security Council resolution 1701 took into account Lebanon’s concerns as much as possible. The Lebanese Prime Minister emphasised that his country’s government would do all within its power to ensure the implementation of this decision taken by the international community.
Mr Siniora also thanked Mr Putin for Russia’s decision to provide Lebanon with humanitarian aid, which has already begun arriving in the country via Cyprus.
The conversation took place on Lebanon’s initiative.